Imagine being the person responsible for getting Beyoncé ready for a red carpet event or world tour. How would you handle the pressure? What would you put her in? What would you talk about? Joke about? I mean, what is it like to stand next to a QUEEN on a regular basis?
That’s how Ty Hunter goes about his days, as one of Bey’s closest companions and the man responsible for, among other things, choosing Bey’s footwear while on tour. We had the pleasure [correction: honor] of chatting with him about how he chooses her kicks, what heel height is preferable for her insane dance moves, and what Queen Bey’s favorite heels to get down in are.
How much does Beyoncé’s performance weigh into the shoe choices you select for the tour?
“As far as stage shoes, comfort-ability plays a major role because she has to dance.”
Are there any brands you tend to gravitate towards?
“Stuart Weitzman, Giuseppe Zanotti, and Tom Ford.”
Is there a heel height maximum you tend to stay at?
“Nothing over 3 1/2 inches.”
Have there been any disasters thus far? Heels breaking? Injuries?
“No disasters, as of yet. Thanks be to God!”
Does Bey have a favorite shoe that she’s been rocking for the tour?
“There are two pairs of custom-made, thigh-high boots by Pucci and Versace that she loves!”
Do you have a favorite shoe that she wears?
“The Stuart Weitzman pumps, because they’re easier for me and Raquel Smith (who is also Beyoncé’s stylist) to put on during the tour in quick change.”
What’s the one shoe every woman should have in her closet?
“A simple black pump. Because you can dress it up or down. It’s a staple to any woman’s wardrobe.”
What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about shopping with Beyoncé?
“The one thing people would be surprised to know is that we have fun. We joke around a lot. It’s like being a kid in a candy store because we love fashion. Shopping is also very therapeutic for us as a team. Raquel and I have a lot of fun when we’re out at stores.”
